H.R.3922 - Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3922, the Cross-Boundary Wildfire Solutions Act, directs the Comptroller General to study existing programs, rules, and authorities related to wildfire mitigation across federal and non-federal land ownership boundaries. The study will assess the effectiveness of current measures and identify potential improvements. The bill requires a report to be submitted to the House Committee on Natural Resources and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources within two years of enactment, including recommendations for simplifying cross-boundary wildfire mitigation.
Expected Effects
The primary effect will be a comprehensive review of current wildfire mitigation strategies. This could lead to legislative or administrative changes aimed at improving cross-boundary collaboration and resource allocation. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance wildfire prevention and response efforts across different land ownerships.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Wildfire Mitigation: By identifying and addressing barriers to cross-boundary collaboration, the bill could lead to more effective wildfire mitigation strategies.
- Increased Access to Funding: The study will assess whether changes to existing programs could increase access to funding for wildfire mitigation activities.
- Enhanced Collaboration: The bill promotes collaboration between federal, state, local, and tribal governments in wildfire management.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: The Comptroller General's report will provide valuable data and recommendations to inform future policy decisions.
- Protection of Natural Resources: More effective wildfire mitigation can protect forests, watersheds, and other natural resources.
Potential Disadvantages
- Delayed Implementation: The study and report process could take up to two years, delaying the implementation of any potential improvements.
- Uncertain Outcomes: The study may not identify significant barriers or lead to concrete recommendations for improvement.
- Potential for Bureaucracy: New regulations or programs resulting from the study could create additional bureaucratic hurdles.
- Limited Scope: The bill focuses primarily on cross-boundary issues and may not address other important aspects of wildfire management.
- Cost of the Study: Conducting the study will require resources and funding, which could be used for other wildfire-related activities.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to protect communities and natural resources from the threat of wildfires. Congress has the power to enact legislation necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers, including managing federal lands and providing for the common defense. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).